Trick for Figuring Distance for Audible Sounds

[TurkeyBowMaster]

I just saw an archived post where the op asked for tips on figuring the distance of a bulging elk. Surprisingly no one had and tips on this which amazed me because there is a simple trick that works with extreme accuracy. It works by triangulation, a method if figuring distance that has been around for thousands of years.

Here is how it works: you simply take note of the direction of the bulls bugle, move to the side a ways and take his direction again. With a compass and topo maps, the method is extremely accurate but I normally just go by feel. It also should be noted that someone handy with GPS can put in waypoints from each location and pinpoint the position.

Using these methods is especially helpful when covering lots of ground where you are hearing several bulls in the distance. It is far better to use triangulation to quickly pinpoint him than to assume you can get to him before he quits bulging.

My extensive use of this methods on the gobble of turkeys has proved it very useful, especially when pinpointing distant toms, then later on closing in on their location and cold calling and trying to illicit a response.

[WapitiTalk1]

Very interesting point/tactic TBM. In military land navigation, they call this either "intersection or resection". Good tip!

[TurkeyBowMaster]

If the elk or turkey is close its not like you have to go to a big effort to implement this. You just simply angle to one side or the other. With turkey angle to the side that looks like a good area and with elk the downwind side . Another side effect, pun intended, is if you carry on too far you end up to one side of the animal instead of bumping into him, therefore you spook less game.